JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE NUTRITION
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Advancing the Paleo Diet: Components, Definition, and Classification
Hollywood, JB
FIRST PUBLISHED
2025-02-01
Article:
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ABSTRACT
Background: The Paleolithic diet (PD) is often defined by modern interpretations that may not align with archaeological evidence. Current definitions frequently include excluded food items potentially skewing the understanding of its food components and classification possibly leading to inconclusive consensus determinations.
Objective: This study aimed to critically evaluate the existing literature on the PD highlighting discrepancies in the modern-day definition to develop and revise a conclusive archaeological-based definition.
Methods: A review of studies from various databases was performed, focusing on dietary components of the PD. Studies evaluated dietary constructs from Neanderthals and Paleolithic modern humans, rather than modern-day humans at-risk for disease to ensure PD definition aligns with historical evidence. Key components of the PD were identified through secondary reviews of critically evaluated literature utilizing carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis, dental remains, stone tools, microfossils, archaeological artifacts, and coprolites.
Results: Grains and legumes were consistently discovered in archeological dig findings. Eggs were not found. Several studies demonstrated a diverse PD consisting of both plant and animal sources. Food group domains, food types, and scientific nomenclature were cataloged. The PD was found to be a lifestyle rather than an isolated diet.
Conclusion: A final definition is established, derived from comprehensive evidence, providing a diverse and inclusive dietary framework. This accurate definition is crucial for future trials to back nutritional interventions.
COI STATEMENT
The authors declare no competing financial interests.
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